Thailand: Report by the National Reconciliation Commission

The United States welcomes the release of Thailand's National Reconciliation Commission (NRC) report: "Overcoming Violence through the Power of Reconciliation." We applaud the Commission and its chairman, former Thai Prime Minister Anand Panyarachun, for their efforts to address the violence afflicting southern Thailand. We also recognize the key role played by the Royal Thai Government, which appointed the NRC. The NRC’s distinguished members have worked hard over the past year to find solutions that address both security concerns and issues of injustice. We support the statement by the Royal Thai Government that it will implement the NRC's proposals as quickly as possible, and recognize that reconciliation will be a long-term challenge for the Thai people. We continue to urge a peaceful resolution of this internal issue that balances security with respect for the rule of law and the sanctity of human rights.